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Controls Engineer Intern Jobs in Naperville, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$101K - $129K/yr

Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification. * Professional Engineer ("PE") License. * Experience performing quality control checks on small substation protection and control design ...

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification. * Professional Engineer ("PE") License. * Experience performing quality control checks on small substation protection and control design ...

Join OceanComm's engineering team and help build undersea drones, intelligent sensors, and other ... Strong fundamentals (data structures / algorithms or circuits / digital / embedded or controls ...

New

Analyze and structure existing engineering data (requirements, designs, BOMs, test results) for use ... National Controls Corporation (NCC), Vehicular Instrumentation Systems (VIS), and Motec Heavy-Duty ...

Controls Engineer Intern information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer Intern, you need a foundation in electrical or mechanical engineering principles, familiarity with automation concepts, and enrollment in a relevant engineering degree program. Hands-on experience with PLC programming, HMI software, and CAD tools, as well as knowledge of industry standards, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help interns excel in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills and qualifications enable effective troubleshooting, system design, and integration essential for successful automation solutions.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Intern vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Engineer InternControls Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; internship experienceBachelor's or master's degree in engineering; professional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in manufacturing or automation companies, supervised by experienced engineersFull-time role in design, development, and maintenance of control systems within industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring interns to gain future talent; common in manufacturing, automation, and roboticsFull-time position in similar industries, focusing on project execution and system optimization

The Controls Engineer Intern role is an entry-level position designed for students gaining practical experience, while the Controls Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and maintaining control systems. Interns typically work under supervision, whereas engineers operate independently on complex projects.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Controls Engineer Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Controls Engineer Intern, you can expect to support senior engineers on projects such as designing, programming, and testing automation systems used in manufacturing or industrial environments. Your daily tasks may include drafting electrical schematics, assisting with PLC programming, troubleshooting control panels, and helping to commission automated equipment. Interns often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers and technicians, to ensure smooth integration of control systems. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to real-world engineering challenges and can be a stepping stone to a full-time position.

What does a Controls Engineer Intern do?

A Controls Engineer Intern assists in designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. Typical tasks include programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshooting equipment, and supporting senior engineers with system integration and testing. Interns gain hands-on experience with automation software and hardware, and they often contribute to projects that improve process efficiency and safety. This role is ideal for students in engineering fields who want practical experience in automation and controls technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Naperville, IL? For Controls Engineer Intern jobs in Naperville, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Controls Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Intern job openings in Naperville, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Substation Protection and Controls Engineer

Leidos

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$101K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 428 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

We are looking for a Substation Protection & Control Engineer to join our team in our Chicago, IL office. As a Protection & Control Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to design substation protection and control projects for electric utilities at voltages from 12kV up to 500kV. This is an exciting and growing field in the power systems industry and allows candidates to get exposure to how the power generation such as that of renewable energy ties into the electric system. Candidates will be expected to use knowledge of digital logic design, AC and DC circuits to design substation electrical projects.

Multiple Support Options AVAILABLE:

  • Hybrid Schedule:(2-4) days a week in the Chicago, IL office!

  • Remote Options: Work from where you are! - Candidates must located in the United States and willing to travel in office or clients sites as needed.

Successful candidates can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth including:

  • Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT).

  • Professional Engineer License (PE).

  • Project Management Professional (PMP).

  • Technical & Non-Technical Training Opportunities.

  • Leadership Opportunities.

  • Mentorship & Training Opportunities.

  • Opportunity to Lead, Grow, and Inspire a Dynamic Team

In this role, you can also expect to gain experience in the following:

  • Interfacing with Local Clients.

  • Partnering with a Variety of Utility Clients Nationwide.

  • Working with different types of projects ranging from distribution to transmission level voltages.

  • Electrical Power Calculations.

  • Interactions with Other Disciplines (Substation, Telecom, and Civil Structural, etc).

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

We have a Mid to Senior level substation engineering for the positions located in our Chicago, IL location. The Electrical Engineer will be responsible for design and planning related activities associated with electric transmission, distribution, and substation facilities. This includes preparation of single-lines, schematics, and wiring designs for substations and quality control checks for wiring designs. Responsibilities will also include preparation of studies and reports for transmission and distribution systems.

Begin your journey of a flourishing and meaningful career, share your resume with us today!

The Challenge:

  • Relay One Line Design.

  • Three Line AC Schematic Design.

  • DC Protection Schematic Design.

  • Panel Layout and Wiring Design.

  • Develop Bill of Materials Based on Design Criteria.

  • Quality Control Checks on Wiring Design.

  • Complete Project Lifecycle Support from Scoping to Final Design and Implementation.

  • Construction Support.

  • Applying the Minimum Requirements of the National Electrical Safety Code to the Design Processes

  • Working with Client Standards to Implement Design.

  • Working with a Designer/Drafter to Create the Required Drawings for Each Project.

Successful candidates must comply with quality control and safe work practices and maintain compliance with project scope, schedule, and budget. This position will be a member of a design team comprised of engineers, designers, and CAD technicians and will work with client standards to implement design.


What Sets You Apart:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, or related degree with four (4+) or more years of Substation protection control design and/or field testing/commissioning experience.

  • Experience in executing substation protection and control projects.

  • Demonstrate Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with the internal team and clients to meet project needs.

  • Ability to read and design substation protection and control drawings such as one-line drawings, three-line drawings, AC/DC schematic drawings and wiring design.

  • Ability to meet deadlines under pressure situations.

  • Collaborator and leader who can work effectively in team environment.

  • Self-starter who works independently with minimal direction.

  • Detail oriented.

  • Strong analytical skills and proven problem solver in both team and independent environments.

  • High level of computer competency.

  • Willingness to travel to project / client sites and Portland, OR office as needed.

You May Also Have:

  • US Citizen and able to pass a DOE Background Check

  • Engineer Intern ("EI" or "EIT") professional certification.

  • Professional Engineer ("PE") License.

  • Experience performing quality control checks on small substation protection and control design projects.

  • Experience working on CAD tools.

  • Master's degree in related field.

  • Field testing/commissioning experience.

WHAT WE DO

Leidos is a trusted and technology-focused solutions provider. Utilities and mobile operators rely on our Power Delivery Services Team for reliable power and telecommunication expertise, as reflected through our work with more than 50 investor-owned utilities, more than 160municipals/cooperatives,as well as a growing number of mobile operators, local utility providers and private developers. In addition to providing engineering and project management services, Leidos works with an established group of industry-leading construction partners delivering meaningful Energy Delivery Solutions. Our recognition as an industry leader is confirmed by the latest national rankings by Engineering News-Record (ENR) ranking Leidos within the Top 10 T&D Firms, and Top 10 Power Firms. To explore and learn more, click here!

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

We take care of our employees. Leidos seeks the best and the brightest, and in return, we invest in you, with an eye on your future, through career advancement, growth opportunities and continuous improvement via mentoring, formal and informal project management training and assistance with obtaining pertinent certifications. We challenge you to help solve some of the world's toughest problems, and reward you with a welcoming culture that recognizes the importance of a strong work/life balance, as well as competitive compensation and benefits. We believe that diversity and inclusion make us all better and offer the chance to have fun and make a difference.

PowerDelivery

PDSSUBSTATION

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:April 16, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


What Leidos employees say

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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